The Mets host the Marlins at Tradition Field for the third time this spring at 1:10 PM this afternoon. Here are some of the things I’ll be watching today…
Could this be the Opening Day lineup?
This is close to what I expect Terry Collins to post on the clubhouse wall next Monday. Of course, if Daniel Murphy is ready to go, then this will change somewhat. It’s likely to be either Daniel Muno or Ruben Tejada if Murphy isn’t ready, and today Daniel Muno will get the opportunity to show he’s worthy of the start.
The fifth starter job enters the home stretch.
Rafael Montero will start for the Mets today in an effort to succeed in an unlikely run at the starting rotation. He looked fantastic five days ago against the Yankees when he allowed only a run on three hits in four innings at Steinbrenner Field. Most important is he is throwing strikes, something which he needs to continue to do to show team brass last year’s inconsistencies were a fluke.
Juan Lagares’ continued consistency in the leadoff spot.
Lagares has had an impressive camp, much like most of his other teammates. In particular, he has a .348 OBP out of the leadoff spot, which is notable considering the Mets have considered him a candidate to hit leadoff since late last summer. So far, he has done a lot to secure that job, but he’s still chasing pitches on occasion outside the strike zone. But again, it looks like it may be coming together for the Gold Glove outfielder.
Today’s game can be seen on SNY or MLB.tv.
Just Mets 